The Ultimate Spiced Apple Cider Recipe for a Cozy Holiday

What kind of recipe is it?

Spiced apple cider is a warm, comforting beverage that beautifully blends the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

This delightful drink is perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying on a chilly day. Its rich, inviting aroma and warming qualities make it an ideal choice for both families looking to create cherished memories and individuals seeking a seasonal treat.

Cooking this recipe allows you to infuse your home with the essence of autumn while providing a soothing drink for friends and loved ones.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh apple cider	8 cups (64 fl oz)
Fresh apples	2 medium, sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Brown sugar	1/2 cup
Whole cloves	5-6 pieces
Cinnamon sticks	2 sticks
Ground nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon
Ground allspice	1/4 teaspoon
Orange	1, sliced (optional)
Water	1 cup (if needed)
Optional: vanilla extract	1 teaspoon

This table captures all the ingredients needed for a delicious spiced apple cider recipe along with their respective quantities.

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Cooking Steps

Gather and measure all ingredients: 8 cups (64 fl oz) of fresh apple cider, 2 medium sliced fresh apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), 1/2 cup brown sugar, 5-6 whole cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice, and 1 sliced orange (optional).
Select a large pot or Dutch oven (minimum 3.5 L/4 quart capacity) and place it on the stovetop.
Pour the 8 cups (64 fl oz) of fresh apple cider into the pot.
Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and the optional sliced orange into the pot.
If the mixture appears too thick or concentrated, add 240 ml (1 cup) of water.
Stir the mixture well with a wooden spoon until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat (approximately 175-190 °C / 350-375 °F), allowing it to cook for about 20-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you begin to smell the warm aroma of spices and apples wafting through the kitchen.
After simmering, reduce the heat to low (85-100 °C / 185-212 °F) and let the cider steep for an additional 30-60 minutes for deeper flavor extraction. Keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
If desired, use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the cider into another pot or heatproof pitcher to remove the solids, pressing down gently to extract all the liquid.
Taste the cider and adjust sweetness to your liking, adding more brown sugar if desired.
Serve warm in heatproof mugs. If you want to enhance it further, you can stir in 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract just before serving.
Keep any leftover cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat when ready to enjoy again.
Optionally, garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple for added flair and flavor.
Allow any remaining cider to cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator to prevent condensation inside the storage container.

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Variations

Spicy Ginger Cider: Add 100 g (3.5 oz) of freshly grated ginger to the pot for a warm, zesty kick that complements the apple flavors.
Cranberry Apple Cider: Incorporate 240 g (8.5 oz) of fresh cranberries for a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cider, especially great for Thanksgiving.
Vegan Maple Cider: Substitute the 1/2 cup brown sugar with 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pure maple syrup for a refined sweetness that’s vegan-friendly.
Slow Cooker Apple Cider: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off method that enhances the flavors over a longer time.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When I serve spiced apple cider, I love to focus on presentation to enhance the cozy, inviting feel of the drink.

I usually use clear glass mugs to showcase the rich amber color, and I like to garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple.

Sometimes, I even add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch. It really elevates the experience!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

Serving spiced apple cider not only delights the senses through its warm flavors but also sets the perfect stage for a variety of dishes.

I love pairing it with roasted butternut squash, herb-stuffed turkey, or hearty mushroom risotto. These comforting options complement the cider’s spices beautifully, creating a warm, cohesive meal that’s perfect for any cozy holiday gathering.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

Have you ever considered how well spiced apple cider pairs with other beverages?

I love enjoying it alongside a rich red wine or even a light, crisp sparkling wine. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a splash of rum for added warmth.

And don’t forget about coffee; a spiced apple cider latte can be an incredible treat on chilly days.

Cheers to cozy combinations!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Kitchen Tools Do I Need for This Recipe?

You’ll need a large pot for simmering, a wooden spoon for stirring, a fine mesh strainer to catch spices, and a ladle for serving. Don’t forget measuring cups for precise ingredient amounts; it makes a difference!

Can I Make This Cider in Advance?

Absolutely, I can make this cider in advance! I usually prepare it a day ahead, letting the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge, then warm it up when I’m ready to serve.

How Long Does Spiced Apple Cider Last?

Spiced apple cider typically lasts about a week in the fridge. If I’ve got leftovers, I’ll store them in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Freezing it can extend its life for up to three months!

Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version Available?

I love making a non-alcoholic version of spiced apple cider. Just use apple juice, warm it up, and add your favorite spices. It’s delicious and perfect for everyone to enjoy during the holidays!

What Type of Apples Are Best for Cider?

I love using a mix of sweet apples like Fuji or Gala with tart ones like Granny Smith. This combination creates a well-balanced cider that’s rich in flavor and perfect for every cozy occasion.